Thursday 14 September 2017, 14:24

Memorable moment: Nia Kunzer's goal for the ages

As the world of football counts down to the reveal of the FIFA Women’s World Cup France 2019™ official emblem and slogan – in Paris on 19 September – we are counting down the 10 Most Memorable Moments in FIFA Women’s World Cup history.

The background Nia Kunzer's name will forever be synonymous with the final of the FIFA Women's World Cup 2003™, her Golden Goal in extra time against Sweden sparking wild celebrations across Germany. Shortly before the end of regulation time the defender was brought on as a substitute for Pia Wunderlich. In the eighth minute of extra time she sent her side into raptures by guiding home an unstoppable header to secure Germany their first title at the global showpiece. Renate Lingor swung a teasing free-kick from the right into the box, where Kunzer was waiting near the penalty spot to soar high and net the winner.

Why so special? Over a period of ten years Golden Goals, often termed 'Sudden Death' by losing teams, decided numerous games at major international tournaments. Some of those strikes have a special place in the history of the game, such as Kunzer's effort in the Women's World Cup final in 2003. It was the last Golden Goal ever scored, thereby making it a historic one.

What she said "I was confused at first and didn't know what had happened. I couldn't understand it because my header wasn't even that powerful. But two or three seconds later the first couple of team-mates embraced me and then the penny dropped that we were world champions."

Press play to relive Kunzer's exploits and click here for more about this unforgettable moment.